Idfg To Host Open House To Discuss Proposed Fish Regulation Changes

IDAHO FALLS - According to Regional Fisheries Manager Jim Fredericks of the Upper Snake Region of the Idaho Department of Fish & Game (IDFG), "We're always talking with the public about ways to improve fishing, but these scoping meetings give us chance to sit down formally with the public and share our thoughts." This formal meeting of the minds will be taking place at the IDFG Regional Office at 4279 Commerce Circle in Idaho Falls all day on Tuesday, May 10. The open house will run from 8:00 A.M. until 5:00 P.M. IDFG doesn't have a lot of big changes planned to be scoped with the public. "We are always looking for ways to make things easier for anglers to understand and increase fishing opportunities." said Fredericks. Changes being discussed will be at two different levels, regional and statewide. At the regional level, IDFG would like to know how the public feels about implementing a catch & release rule for mountain whitefish on the Big Lost River; as well as a similar rule for Yellowstone cutthroat trout on the Teton River. "We also want to see how anglers feel about extending quality trout rules downstream from the steel bridge on the Henrys Fork." said Fredericks. At the statewide level, the Department is looking for comments regarding expanding the use of two-pole permits to ice fishermen. This would increase the number of potential holes an angler could fish through from 5 to 10. Comment is also sought regarding changes in tournament regulations on wild trout streams. The public is encouraged to attend the open house and make comments about proposals being recommended or other fishing related topics. Individuals with disabilities may request meeting accommodations by contacting Jim Fredericks at the Idaho Department of Fish & Game at 525-7290 or through the Idaho Relay Service at 1-800-377-3529(TDD). Comments can also be sent via E-mail to jfredericks@idfg.idaho.gov. Deadline for comments is 5:00 P.M. on May 10, 2005.